READING about Helen's dam brought back fond memories of our excursions to Dandenong Creek.

Our little band ranged in age from six to 14 and usually numbered eight or better.

Armed with fishing gear, planks, rope and whatever else was needed for raft making we'd head off on the trip.

We spent many happy hours building rafts and, in due course, sinking them.

Even from a young age we had a healthy respect for the creek and knew it became dangerous after rain.

While there are lots of modern toys around these days, young children still delight in the simple things - give them water, a few sticks, a bit of space and they'll play for hours.

Maureen Russell, Buffalo